Landscape

This trail passes through a scenic mix of tall grass prairies, maple and basswood forests, and oak savanna. Deer, fox, wild turkeys, beavers, partridge, pheasant, and opossum can often be seen from the trail. Bald eagles nest along the Mississippi River and can be spotted just about year-round.

In the northern segment, four miles of developed, paved trail runs from the city of Red Wing to Hay Creek, with an adjacent unpaved trail for horse use. The northern trailhead connects with Red Wing's city trails, as well as the Cannon Valley Trail, a 19.7 mile trail that connects Red Wing to Cannon Falls.

The southern segment of the trail features 4.5 miles of paved trail , and is used by hikers in the summer and snowmobilers in the winter. This segment starts in the city of Zumbrota, connects to the city's trail system, and heads north for 5.5 miles.

Events Calendar

Adjacent horse trail

Along the northern part of the trail, an adjacent unpaved trail is available for horseback riding and carriage driving. Beginning in the Hay Creek Unit of the Richard J. Dorer State Forest, the natural surface treadway is approximately four miles long and connects to 15 miles of equestrian trails within the Hay Creek day-use area.

Overnight camping and campfires are permitted only in designated campsites. Never leave campfires unattended.

Enjoy the beauty of wild plants and animals, but leave them undisturbed for all to enjoy.

Trail users are legally responsible for obeying the rules and regulations provided in Minnesota Rules, 6100.3000.

Winter use

In the south segment, snowmobilers can use the paved trail beginning in the city of Zumbrota and heading north for 4.5 miles. This section is part of the grants-in-aid snowmobile trail system in the winter.

In the north segment, snowmobilers can use the grass treadway from Red Wing to Hay Creek (the same trail that is open to horseback riding in the warmer months).